Chiwetal Ejiofor’s Sister Reacts To His Oscar Nomination

The Oscar nominations offered many snubs, but one thing they got right was nominating Chiwetal Ejiofor for his harrowing performance in 12 Years A Slave.

Reacting to this honour was Ejiofor’s sister Zain Asher, a financial news reporter for CNN. While on air, she got emotional talking about her brother’s years of hard work as an actor (which yes, includes playing Keira Knightley’s hubby in Love Actually).

“I’m gonna try not to cry, but this was a day that my family has really been hoping for and waiting for such a long time,” she sayss. “You know, he just worked so hard for this.”

But it was remembering how her brother would practice Shakespeare lines all day when he was 13 that triggered the waterworks.

“To finally see recognition for his work, is just…I can’t even describe the feeling,” she says. “Sorry. I’m sorry. I’ve never cried on TV before!”

This is truly a wonderful and adorable moment. Not only must it be amazing for Ejiofor, but for his whole family as well!

Samantha Lui is a writer living in Toronto. When she isn't writing, shooting videos or interviewing people, she can be found alone at the movie theater. You can follow her on Twitter (@samanthalui_) or find out more on her site samanthalui.ca.